Voters urged to say ‘no' to Myanmar constitution

One of Myanmar's main pro-democracy groups yesterday urged voters to reject the ruling junta's proposed constitution when it goes to a referendum in May.
The regime says approval of the charter will clear the way to multi-party elections in 2010, but the 88 Generation Students' Group said it would only enshrine military rule.
"This constitution is designed to protect and promote the interests, wealth and security of generals and their cronies," the group said in a statement.
"This constitution will allow the military dictatorship to perpetuate in Burma," it added, using the country's previous name.
The 88 Generation Students' Group launched anti-government protests last August, harnessing public anger over a surprise hike in fuel prices.
Top leaders of the group have been arrested, but Buddhist monks continued the demonstrations and they snowballed into the biggest challenge to military rule in nearly two decades.
The military smashed the protests by firing into the crowds, which by their peak had swelled to more than 100,000 people.
Revered Buddhist monks were detained and beaten and at least 31 people were killed, according to the United Nations.
The 88 Generation Students, named after student-led protests in 1988 that were also brutally crushed, urged voters to reject the constitution to show their opposition to the military's violent tactics.
"With our 'No' votes, we will clean the blood and dirt stained on the bodies of our revered monks by the soldiers," the group said.
"You do not need to be afraid. The authorities have no right to arrest you for voting against this constitution. You are entitled to use your vote freely.
"By voting against this constitution, let us show the enormous power of the people. If you fail to do so, you will be afraid of the military for the rest of your life and of your next generations," it added.